Victory | March 31, 2022

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Closes Two Critically Depleted Fisheries

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) closed the commercial and bait fisheries for two critically depleted species: Atlantic mackerel and Southern Gulf spring herring. Oceana Canada advocated for fishery rebuilding measures to be implemented and called for the closure of both fisheries. Atlantic mackerel and Southern Gulf spring herring play a crucial role in the Northwest Atlantic ecosystem and feed many other species, including whales, seabirds, and commercially important stocks such as cod and tuna. DFO’s decision – a difficult but necessary measure – contributes to the conservation of these forage fish and the long-term prosperity of Canada’s fisheries.